Buildings account for what percentage of total energy use?

Buildings account for what percentage of total energy use?
A . 30%
B . 40%
C . 50%
D . 60%

View Answer

Answer: B

Explanation:

Buildings account for 40% of total energy use in the U.S., according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency1. This is consistent with the global estimate by the International Energy Agency, which states that buildings and construction sector accounted for 36% of final energy use in 20182.

Reference: LEED AP O+M Exam Guide, page 305; LEED v4.1 O+M Reference Guide, page 97.

Buildings are one of the primary consumers of energy worldwide, and they account for a significant percentage of total energy use. The correct percentage is 40%, which encompasses energy used for heating, cooling, lighting, and operating buildings. This figure reflects the extensive impact that building design, construction, and operations have on energy consumption and the potential for energy savings in this sector.

Reference: The figure that buildings account for 40% of total energy use is a commonly cited statistic in the field of sustainability and is mentioned in LEED training materials and documentation. It is a crucial factor that drives the Energy and Atmosphere (EA) category within the LEED rating systems, pushing for strategies that reduce energy consumption and improve building energy performance.